21 Best Things to Do in De Efteling | Top 21 Attractions in Efteling Theme Park, the Netherlands
Welcome to ‘De Efteling’
‘De Efteling’ is a one-of-a-kind fantasy-themed amusement park in Kaatsheuvel, the Netherlands, with a fairytale ambiance, natural settings, and a variety of thrilling and captivating attractions derived from ancient myths, legends, fairytales, fables, and folklores, making it a perfect short-break destination for children, adult, and families who need a little magic and thrill now and again!
A Brief History of Efteling
‘De Efteling’ was first opened to the public on May 31, 1952. It grew from a small theme park with a playground and a Fairytale Forest to a full-fledged amusement park. It now has cultural, romantic, and nostalgic themes, as well as a large range of amusement rides, including six roller coasters and four dark rides, that appeal to both children and adults.
It is the Netherlands' largest theme park and one among the world's oldest theme parks. It is twice the size of the original Disneyland park in California, and it opened three years earlier. Annually, the park has more than 5 million visitors. It was the most visited theme park in Europe in 2020 ahead of Disneyland Paris. Today I’m going to share with you the 21 best things to do in ‘De Efteling’. Let the journey begin!
21 Best Things to Do in Efteling Theme Park
For the interactive map please visit efteling.com/en/park/map or download the Efteling mobile app.
1. Explore the Sprookjesbos (Fairytale Forest)
Efteling began in the Fairytale Forest, and this is the park's most famous area. It showcases fairytales by Brothers Grimm, Hans Christian Andersen, and Perrault amidst a lovely natural landscape. Stroll between giants and trolls. Keep an eye out for the fakir flying about and the red shoes dancing. Discover the enchanted world of the 'Largest Living Picture Book.'
To read all the fairytale stories please visit efteling.com/en/park/attractions/fairytale-forest/fairytales.
The Troll King
The Six Servants
Hansel and Gretel
The Gnome Village
Tom Thumb
Pinocchio
Rapunzel
Little Red Riding Hood
Fairytale Tree
The Chinese Nightingale
2. Meet the Volk van Laaf (People of Laaf) in the village of Lavenlaar
The ‘People of Laaf’ were a nomadic group who roamed wide plains millions of years ago, searching for a permanent location to call home. The Efteling made them feel comfortable. For many years, the Laaf People have been busy with their regular occupations in the village of Lavenlaar. They make music, bake bread, and attend school. Meet the petite, unique Laaf People as you stroll through the village or take the snail-shaped monorail above.
3. Feed the hungry Holle Bolle Gijs family
In a land far far away, once there lived a family who was always hungry. Their favorite cuisine was paper. They resolved to save Efteling's natural environment from all the trash and turned chewing papers into their profession. Since then, the family hasn't stopped eating. Is there any paper with you? Then, when you're there, make an effort to feed the Holle Bolle Gijs family.
4. Embark on a Sindbad Adventure on the Wings of the Vogel Rok (Rok Bird)
The Vogel Rok is an indoor roller coaster that travels at 65 kph (40 mph). You'll fly through the night in its talons, passing serpents aplenty, until this bird of prey, with the might of a hundred lions, finds its nest. You'll be transported to one of Sindbad the Sailor's adventures!
5. Brave the Sea Storms with Sindbad in Sirocco
Embark on a trading journey with Sindbad and face the swirling sea storms on the way that will surely leave you dizzying.
6. Find Hidden Treasures in Archipel (Archipelago)
You have washed up on a thrilling adventure island. Explore the fishing village in search of hidden treasures, but watch out for the unexpected waves.
7. Sail through the Inca Empire in Pirana
In this voyage without a paddle where your path is decided by the rapids, you will sail through a wild river that will lead you past totem poles, cliffs, and waterfalls in the faraway Inca land. So give it a try!
8. Join the Crew of the Dutch East India Company Ship Halve Maen (Swinging Ship)
The Halve Maen, the famous Dutch East India Company ship that went around the world, is anchored in the gorgeous Dutch harbor. Only the most daring venture to board the world's largest swinging ship, which lifts you weightless to tremendous heights with an inclination of 90° before returning safely to port. If your gut can take it, I wish you “Bon Voyage!”
9. Go Mad in the Villa Volta
Villa Volta is a Madhouse, where visitors are given the impression that the building, the visitors, or both are turned upside down. Ton van de Ven designed it, and Vekoma constructed it in 1996. It was the first of its kind at the time, but the concept has since been adopted by a number of other amusement parks.
The story of Villa Volta was inspired by the tale of the buckriders, a vicious and brutal gang of robbers operating in the Kempen in the Dutch provinces of North Brabant (where The Efteling is actually situated) and Limburg, as well as the neighboring Belgian provinces of Brabant and Limburg. They formed a contract with the devil and flew through the skies on the backs of goats, according to legend. They would leave a note on the doors of the farms and residences where they planned to plunder to alert the locals.
Hugo van den Loonsche Duynen, the leader of the goat riders, is said to have lived in Villa Volta after robbing the Abbey of Postel and being cursed by a mystery woman. She can be seen on top of the house, her arms waving in the breeze. "Nowhere in your house, nor in any other place in the world, will you find peace… Only when a noble man with the clear conscience like that of a newborn child enters your house will you find peace in your home and in your heart…"
10. Get Spooked in the Spookslot (Haunted House) now replaced by Danse Macabre
When the Haunted House's clock tower chimes, everything begins to move in a ghostly manner. Try not to feel scared as you watch this eerie scenario in the dark. This attraction may be frightening for small children.
It has recently been replaced by the newly opened (2024) attraction named Danse Macabre. The story of Danse Macabre goes like this. The orchestra of the crazy conductor Joseph Charlatan vanished during an international music competition on Friday the 13th of 1876. Following a spectacular performance of Danse Macabre, they were mercilessly devoured by "The Unnamable," the Evil, who continues to haunt the area today in the shape of a hideous feline. So go ahead and take a seat on one of the ominous choir stalls to get spooked by a spectral show!
Image Courtesy: efteling.com/en/park/attractions/danse-macabre
11. Travel the World with Jokie and Jet at Carnaval Festival (Carnival Festival)
Meet up with jolly Jokie & Jet who will transport you to other nations to learn about different cultures and join the world's largest party of red-nosed people!
12. Watch a Family Show at Caro (the Efteling Theater)
The entire family will be awestruck by this spectacular show packed with humor, music, and acrobatics. Allow yourself to be taken away by the carousel, which evokes great life moments. Don't miss this family-friendly visual entertainment where words aren't necessary. But bear in mind, you have to buy separate tickets for the show. For information on the ticket prices and the show timings, please visit efteling.com/en/theatre/caro.
13. Rough it out on the Coasters
Efteling features several different kinds of coasters.
Python (Steel Roller Coaster) - Python is a double loop corkscrew steel roller coaster. Survive the twists and turns of the Python's stranglehold at incredible heights.
De Vliegende Hollander (Water Coaster) - De Vliegende Hollander (The Flying Dutchman) is a thrilling water coaster that has a good mix of classic dark ride aesthetics and the adrenaline of a water coaster ride. The trip is based on Captain Willem Van Der Decken, who set sail on his ship "De-Hollander" despite the severe weather in the hopes of finding money and riches. His avarice was so strong that he ordered his crew to sail on Easter Sunday, despite the fact that it was illegal. Everyone on board has been destined to sail on this ghost ship known as De Vliegende Hollander forever on the seven seas since that day.
Baron 1898 (Dive Coaster) - Baron 1898 is a dive coaster that drops you from 37,50 meters down a mine shaft at 90 km/h in 130 seconds. It is, in our opinion, one of Europe's top dive coasters and the best coaster at the Efteling amusement park. The trip begins with two pre-shows that explain the history of the mine you are going to enter. When you board, you slowly climb to the top of the first hill, bracing yourself for a punishing 87-degree vertical plunge. We don't advocate sitting in the front on your first ride if this makes you nervous, but we do recommend it on your second!
Joris en de Draak (Wooden Roller Coaster) - Slay the dragon that is causing havoc in the kingdom. All warriors are asked to choose one of the tracks and use water or fire to hunt down the beast. After a ride on this double-track wooden racing rollercoaster speeding at 70 kph (45 mph), only those who succeed will be richly rewarded.
Max and Mortiz (Family Roller Coaster) - You and your entire family will enjoy an exhilarating and chaotic ride full of stunts on the Max & Moritz double roller coaster. Escape from the cuckoo clock workshop with Max and Moritz in one of their soapboxes. However, don't forget to keep an eye out for some trouble from the boys along the route!
Roller Coaster Python
Roller Coaster De Vliegende Hollander (The Flying Dutchman)
14. Take a Boat Ride amidst Beautiful Nature (Gondoletta)
Jump onto a Gondoletta and relax during the 20-minute boat ride. While cruising past gorgeous colorful flowerbeds, you'll be surrounded by melodies while watching small creatures frolic on the lake. The flora is arranged in such a way that it naturally attracts the fauna.
15. Play with your kids at the play forest Nest
A unique play forest where all courageous daredevils aspire to great feats and get ready for their very first roller coaster ride. Slide down it to battle the dragon, then navigate the crooked structures to reach the boardwalk!
16. Travel around the park in a Stoomtrein (Steam Train)
Take a steam train ride through the several kingdoms of Efteling. Board at any stop in the vibrant Ruigrijk or the creative Marerijk and unwind on a lovely trip. You will see Efteling from an entirely new perspective when you ride the steam train.
17. Go around in the Kinderspoor (Children’s Trail)
In these pedal trains, you control the speed at which you go. Go past the meadows, barns, and mills, and don’t forget to give a wave to your parents!
Note: Only kids until 12 years of age are allowed on this ride and the kids must pedal themselves.
18. Catch a Bird’s Eye View of Efteling and the Surroundings in the Thai Temple (Pagode)
Take in breathtaking views of the entire Efteling and the surroundings while the Thai temple spins at a height of 45 meters.
19. Get Enchanted at the Miniature World of Diorama
Watch the trains go past in this magical world where day and night alternate. Find out how the little towns that are encircled by rivers and mountains come to be. See every resident going about their everyday business.
20. Enter the Magical World of Symbolica
Symbolica is a trackless dark ride that takes you through an enchanted castle filled with beautiful rooms, secret passageways, entrancing fairies, butterflies, a big whale, a King's feast, and much more.
You are met by an amusing pre-show led by two animatronics as soon as you enter the Palace of Fantasy. After the pre-show, you have the option of entering the castle and choosing one of three possible scenarios to play out on the attraction: Musical, Heroes, or Treasure. Each scenario has its own distinct features, so you'll need to ride all three courses to get the full experience of this attraction.
The construction of this attraction was anticipated to cost €35 million. We believe it was well worth it after witnessing it firsthand. And that’s the reason why you have to wait in the queue for at least half-hour to enter the attraction!
21. Discover the Hidden City of Fata Morgana
This dark boat ride will transport you to the classic Far East. As the Sultan surrounds himself with diamonds, treasure, and other treasures, you will observe a vast disparity between the affluent and the poor on your journey. The poor, on the other hand, are forced to dwell in filthy cellars full of rats and crooks. The boat carries you through poor and wealthy neighborhoods, where a giant guards the Sultan's most valuable possessions: gems, jewelry, and gold coins.
Visiting Efteling
Address: Europalaan 1, 5171 KW Kaatsheuvel
Public Transport: Efteling is situated between the cities of Den Bosch ('s-Hertogenbosch) and Tilburg in the Dutch province of North Brabant. So either travel to Den Bosch train station and take the bus to Tilburg or travel to Tilburg train station and take the bus to Den Bosch. The Efteling is served by bus routes 300, 301, and 136, which run between the two cities. Line 136 is the slowest of the three choices.
Car Parking: Large (paid) parking lot on site. You may choose to pay for the parking in advance while booking the ticket online or purchase them at one of the booths on site. However, purchasing parking tickets online are cheaper than buying on the spot.
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices: For the latest information on the opening hours and ticket prices, please visit their website mentioned below.
Website: https://www.efteling.com/en
Epilogue
So those were the 21 best things to do in ‘De Efteling.’ Please let us know in the comments below if you enjoyed reading this article. And until we meet next time, I wish you merry traveling and happy shooting!
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